The Chosspile is the closest proper sport climbing crag to Johannesburg, being a bit closer than Bronkies. It also has the full spectrum of grades, from super easy, to 33 and beyond. ‘Choss’ as it is affectionately known has provided a place keep fit and work on projects, get away from the big smoke and talk crap, for a couple of generations of Gauteng climbers. The crag overlooks the Hartebeespoort Dam wall and the views are pretty good, especially if the sluice gates are open, but the smells can be less than good, depending on the time of year and the wind direction! Unlike the crag's name there is actually some damn good rock here with some fine routes too. The rock is a quartzite with interesting features; pinches and holes and blocky jugs. Climbs range from slabby to desperately overhanging; take your pick!

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There is a bit of a slog to walk in to the crag but you will have plenty shade in the trees at the base of the cliff. The sun leaves most of the face by midday.

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== Access ==

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Please adhere to under mentioned access arrangements religiously. The Chosspile was closed due to a spate of muggings and later re-opened following negotiations with the landowners and huge effort from the climbing community led by Neil Margetts and friends. NOTE: It was not the MCSA who insisted on the card-holder rule, it was Mt Amananzi, so please dont call Andrew at 8.00 am when you arrive there without a cardholder.

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Some of the history:

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*[http://www.climb.co.za/2011/01/chosspile-safety-temporary-closure Temporary Closure in place for the Chosspile]

Mt Amanzi do not own the land, it is owned by Rissk Estates who agreed to continue to provide acccess to climbers IF the land is rented and the access is controlled. A fence was put up around the land and the Mountain Club of South Africa (MCSA) - spear-headed by Neil Margetts - negotiated a solution whereby Mt Amanzi rent the property from Rissik and control access. There are are some benefits to them in that they do not now have a mass of partyers and crime accross the river from the resort and the residents of the resort can hike up the Chospile mountain. This highlights an important point; Mt Amanzi are not renting the property solely so we can climb, we are secondary. Even if there were 300 climbers a month they are making a loss. For this reason, we do not have too much leverage in climber access discussions, if we are more trouble than we are worth they can close it to us. This is one of the reasons they are insisting that everyone who enters is with an MCSA or University climbing club member as this is reassurance to them that all people entering are responsible and climb safely.

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In addition, Mt Amazi agreed to this ony if we the climbers pay for the guard at the gate, an average of R500 per month. So who pays this? The MCSA, average of R500 per month. The MCSA also pay for the bolts on new climbs and any rebolting of old ones, R600 a time.

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So, with this in mind, the is the access rules from 1 October 2012 until further notice, are as follows:

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1. Every climber entering the property must report to the Mount Amanzi reception before climbing.

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2. Entrance is R30 for MCSA members or members of a University climbing club. Cards must be shown and must have a photoo and sticker for year of membership.

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3. A maximum of 2 guests are allowed with each cardholder. Entrance is R50 for the 1st and 2nd guests. Rather than grumble about this, join the MCSA or your University Club!

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4. All climbers must sign the registry boook and indemnity, and if they are the card-holder, must write their club membership number.

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5. Opening hours are:- Winter time – 1 May till 31 August – from 08H00 – 16H00. Summer time - 1 September till 30 April – from 08H00 – 17H00. This reflects the hours the guards are paid and their transport.

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6. Officers at reception must ask for cards and check validity, it is in the interests of access that climbers remind the desk staff of this.

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7. The guard at the gate must check the date and number of people indicated on the reciept, it is in the interests of access that climbers remind the guard of this.

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Anyone found to be not complying with the above will be banned from the property and should the access be closed down, will not be very popular!

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Sorry that ths is all so firm..but continued access depends on it.

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The owners of the crag (Mr Bezuidenhout of Rissik Estates) is <b>adamant that nobody must trespass onto the land from the dam wall side</b> Legal action will be taken against anyone who does. Please adhere to this rule to avoid unnecessary trouble and considerably jeopardise future access and seriously piss off for the majority of the Gauteng climbing community.

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Please stick to these rules to keep the access open and the crag safe.

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[[File:Chosspile.jpg|center]]

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+

== Chosspile Route List ==

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=== The Man Cave ===

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First Cave after walking from parking.

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{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"

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|-

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|#

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|ROUTE NAME / AREA

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|GRADE

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|# BOLTS

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|RATING

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|BOLTING/OPENED INFO

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|DESCRIPTION

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|-

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|

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| <THE MAN-OMETER TRAVERSE PROJECT>

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|

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|BB. Andrew Pedley

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|-

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|Violent Streak

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|32/8b

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|7 Bolts

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|

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|BB. Andrew Pedley. FA. Andrew Pedley. 2012.

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|Attacks the grey water streak you can see for miles. Scramble to the top of the chossy pillar then power up and pull on. On the FA the first 3 bolts were pre-clipped.

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|-

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|-

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|}

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=== Harry Potter ===

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This crag is right of the Real Man Cave. Routes run from LEFT to RIGHT.

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{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"

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|-

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|#

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|ROUTE NAME / AREA

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|GRADE

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|# BOLTS

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|RATING

+

|BOLTING/OPENED INFO

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|DESCRIPTION

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|-

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|

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|Drako

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|24/7a

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|14 Bolts

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|

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|RBB. Rory Lowther.

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|Pitch 1 is 21/6b+. Pitch 2 is 21/6b+. Use 2 ropes to abseil all the way or go from chains to chains. Currently no chains at stance to abseil from, but large tree stem out right works well to.

| 40m Climb the face left of HARRY POTHEAD, starting 7m left of HP. Tricky poorly protected start. Fire up to the top past two trees. Last 15m also poorly protected.

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|-

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|

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|Harry Pothead

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|19/6a+

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|6 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Short route with easy start, follows large flaring crack up to end of small roof on the left with anchors just around lip.

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|-

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|

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|Hogwarts Warted Hog

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|23

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|9 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Climb toward the left crack in the small roof.

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|-

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|

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|Chamber of Secrets

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|25/7a+

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|8 Bolts

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|

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|BB. Rory Lowther. FA. Steve Dunnet.

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|Route starts 8m below small roof with decent climbing into a corner below roof then follows right crack out of corner and through crux roof to anchors on the face above.

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|-

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|

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|Dobby

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|23,24/6c+,7a

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|8 Bolts

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|

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|BB. Debbie Mulder. FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Just to the right of Chamber of secrets, climb overhanging rock on the right of small roof to anchors in small open book.

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|-

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|

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|Dodgey Glue

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|19/6a+

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|

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|

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|

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|To the right of DOBBY. A cruxy start next to a large root. Glue in anchors have been used.

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|-

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|

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|Man Thang

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|24/7a

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|

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|

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|

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|To the right of DODGY GLUE. Glue in anchors used.

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|-

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|

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|The Philosophers Stoned

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|20

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|-

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|Harry Goes Trading

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|13

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|Natural Gear

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|

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|Easy climbing for 20m, starts to right of the Philosophers Stone in the open book, up to a stance on a ledge with big tree to abseil off.

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|-

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|

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|Moaning Murtle

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|23/6c+

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|7 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Roland Magg.

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|Starts 20m to right of The Philosophers Stoned, on a rock ledge. Line follows middle section of rock, with face climbing until over bulge of rock then into a small roof with the crux.

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|-

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|

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|New Route -- SALAZAR suggested

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|18/6a

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|

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|

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|BB. David Tapp. FA. Daniel Hannah. 2010.

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|Start 5m right of Moaning Myrtle. The route takes an almost straight line to the bolts, with a crux at 1/3 height and a tricky move onto the top of an overhang near the top. Good climbing.

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|-

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|

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|Spongify

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|22/6c

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|8 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Start 2m to the right of SALAZAR. Climb into early crux move and continue to easier, fun climbing on face above. Beware a ground fall from the low crux. The small tree at about 2m has been used as a hanging belay to make an early ground fall less likely.

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|-

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|Voltamor

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|19/6a+

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|8 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Climb through 3 small roofs to ledge with chains above the last roof.

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|-

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|

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|Diffindo

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|20/6b

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|7 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Short line with easy start, until crux move getting onto and through small roof.

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|}

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The crag now moves uphill and steps back to a long face with a corner at its left end.

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{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"

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|-

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|#

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|ROUTE NAME / AREA

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|GRADE

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|# BOLTS

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|RATING

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|BOLTING/OPENED INFO

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|DESCRIPTION

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|-

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|

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|THE BLOODY BARON

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|15/5b

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|12 Bolts

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|

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|

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|Start in the corner, just left of the chimney. Move left onto slab and then a few metres higher up, move right into a short right-facing corner. Climb this to ledge, then move left into left facing corner. Steep moves at the top take you to the chains. Some long draws are useful just as you go into to top corner to avoid rope drag. One can also climb the right arête at the bottom. There is a dire warning about rope drag written on the rock at the base of this climb. Please ignore it but do take care to ensure that the rope runs clear from bolt to bolt, doesn't get trapped under the tree or round any rocky bulges.

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|-

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|Quidditch

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|23/6c+

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|7 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Neil Margetts. 2008.

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|This route takes the hanging slab right of the previous route. Start as for THE BLOODY BARON but branch right to the base of the hanging slab and up this to the top. There is a bit of a run out from the top bolt to the chains, but it is safe.

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|The Balls of Hagrid

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|20/6b

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|9 Bolts

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|BB. Neil Margetts. FA. David Tapp. 2010.

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|Climb THE BLOODY BARON for five bolts, then break right across a slab until under a black corner with a prominent crack. Swarm up the crack to an overhang and move left through it to the slab and chains above.

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|-

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|The Slab of Snape

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|16/5c

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|15 Bolts

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|

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|BB. David Tapp & Neil Margetts. FA. Neil Margetts. 2010.

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|The first route on the main face. Climb a series of ledges then up to good holds under a small overhang. Move left under the overhang and up the slab (crux) to the chains. 60m ESSENTIAL.

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|-

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|

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|Harry Catastrophe Left Hand

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|13/5a

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|7 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Dylan Morgan. 2004.

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|Start about 6m left of Slitherin, 3m left of HCRH. Straight up to the chains with one bolt right of the line at half height. The crux is in the first 3m.

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|-

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|

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|Harry Catastrophe Right Hand

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|15/5b

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|6 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Mike Grant. 2004.

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|Start just left of Slitherin. Turn the overhang with one hard move before following the shallow recess to the ledge and face above. This route shares its upper section and anchors with HCLH.

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|-

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|Slitheren

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|14/5b

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|10 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Climbs the obvious corner to the left of centre on the face. Climb to the short layback crack and into an undercling, step out left to easy climbing up an open book corner. Fun climbing for 20m.

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|-

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|A variation of Slitherin 18'''<br>

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|18/6a

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|Heads right, onto the face at the overhang. The climb can then be finished up the face to the right of the arete or straight up the arete. It's a little artificial but if you climb the arete try not to resort to footholds other than on the arete. Move slightly right at the top to the anchors of Raven's Claw. Both anchors are now 100% as of 16.1.10

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|-

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|Ravens Claw

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|17/5c

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|9 Bolts

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|FA. Ronald Magg.

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|Follow the obvious line of bolts to the right of the Slitherin variation, face climbing for 20m to chains. Both anchors are now 100% as of 16.1.10

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|-

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|Griffindore

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|17/5c

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|10 Bolts

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|This route is to the right of Ravens claw and heads up the middle of the face/slab with 3 crux moves otherwise some good climbing.

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|-

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|Huff 'n Puff

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|18/6a

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|9 Bolts

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|FA. Rory Lowther.

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|Cruxy, bouldery start and crimpy end, but easier section in the middle.

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|-

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|

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|Cramcakes and Scumbags

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|20/6b

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|6 Bolts

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|

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|FA. Louis Smit '''OR''' Wiliam Graham. 2004. <Do you have an alias?>

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|

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|}

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=== The Lord of the Rings ===

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This crag is past the Harry Potter section following the scree path all the way too the top large cave.

Routes from the LEFT of the crag towards the RIGHT. This crag is in the shade most of the day with some areas being in the sun late afternoon. This crag is mostly overhanging.

Routes from the LEFT of the crag towards the RIGHT. This crag is in the shade most of the day with some areas being in the sun late afternoon. This crag is mostly overhanging.

Line 17:

Line 366:

|22/6c

|22/6c

|8 Bolts

|8 Bolts

−

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|**

|FA. Dewald Kloppers.

|FA. Dewald Kloppers.

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|Starts with an easy scramble about 5-10m left of SHORTCUT TO MUSHROOMS. The first bolt is about 3m off the ground, scramble up carefully. Continues on a straight line through a cruxy roof to an easy end.

|Following the crackline through a small mantleshelf and a cunning ending. First Ascent: Rob Brinkworth

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|3.

|3.

Line 33:

Line 382:

|21/6b+

|21/6b+

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|

−

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|***

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|Rebolted March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

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|The leftmost route on a yellow, lichen covered face which gets sun in the afternoon. An excellent route and brilliant warm-up.

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|4.

|4.

Line 41:

Line 390:

|23/6c+

|23/6c+

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|*

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−

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|Starts just around the corner and to the right of A SHORTCUT TO MUSHROOMS, try stay out of the corner higher up.

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|-

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|5.

|5.

Line 49:

Line 398:

|24/7a

|24/7a

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−

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|**

−

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|rebolted Feb 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

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|A nice route about 2m right of VOICES OF SARUMAN passing the little roof then tends slightly right. Used to be 26, but is probably 23!

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|6.

|6.

Line 57:

Line 406:

|25/7a+

|25/7a+

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|*

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−

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|About 2m right of GANDALF is an open corner and crack system, finishes on same anchors as GANDALF. Not popular so might be a bit dirty.

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|-

|-

|7.

|7.

|Halfling

|Halfling

−

|27/7b+

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|26/7b

−

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−

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−

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+

|

|

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|**

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|Bolted by Andrew Pedley

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|Use the first three bolts of MOURN NOT OVERMUCH, follow the bolts slightly right up a dark pillar with some hard moves moving over a bulge and left. With the right beta its pretty easy. Finish on the chains of GOLLUM. First Ascent: Jun 2004 Andrew Pedley

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|8.

|8.

Line 73:

Line 422:

|25/7a+

|25/7a+

|

|

−

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|***

−

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|rebolted Feb 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

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+

|Climbs up the face to the large hole 5 metres up. From here some tricky moves to a balancy shake before the sting in tail. Was 24 but consensus is now easy 25. A great climb and a good warm-up for harder things.

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|9.

|9.

Line 88:

Line 437:

|10.

|10.

|Big Bully

|Big Bully

−

|29/7c+

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|29 (7c+)

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|

−

|

+

|***

−

|BB. Wesley Black. FA. Dario <add surname>. 2012.

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|BB. Wesley Black and Andrew P. FA. Dario Zanon. 2012.

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|Ground extension.

+

|The line just to the left of the big dark cave and bush. Instead doing the daft cave start, start from the ground, some confusing face climbing to the big hole on Gollum. From this reach out and clip high then bust the bulge on the right, the pull onto the obvious shield side-pull and power-up for a bouldery crux then a stamina finish. BB: Wesley Black and Andrew Pedley. FA: Andrew Pedley. Bolts sponsored by MCSA - JHB/MAG Section

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|11.

|11.

|Bully for Brontosaurus

|Bully for Brontosaurus

−

|28/7C

+

|28/7c

|10 Bolts

|10 Bolts

−

|

+

|***

|FA. Peter Lazarus.

|FA. Peter Lazarus.

−

|Starts in cave.

+

|Scramble up to the big cave in the middle of the crag. Move left to where you will see the first bolt and clip with long sling. Move out and left onto the shield as above. First Ascent: Peter Lazarus

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|-

|12.

|12.

−

|Tyrannosaurus Rex

+

|Tyrannosaurus Pex

|27/7b+

|27/7b+

|

|

−

|

+

|**

−

|

+

|Bolted and FA: Willem le Roux 2006

−

|Starts in cave.

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|Same first bolt as Bully, then move right to jugs then hard up the face rightwards to chains. Brilliant steep rock.

|-

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|13.

|13.

Line 119:

Line 468:

|-

|-

|14.

|14.

−

| <Shadowfax open project>

+

| Shadowfax

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|33/8b+

|

|

−

|

+

|***

−

|

+

|FA. Andrew Pedley. March 2013.

−

|RBB. Andrew Pedley & Colin Crabtree.

+

|Hardest route in Maglaliesberg, takes on the full steepness of the crag. Start on the small whitish face with first bolt preclipped, to a shake before the roof. Calm the mind then blast out through to a pinch and a semi shake then into a low percentage crux on some bad bad holds. Scream at the finger lock and dont screw up the finish. Solid at the grade. Originally bolted by P. Martin. Rebolted by AP in 2009 and new start added.

−

|Richard Lord had the vision.

+

|-

|-

|15.

|15.

Line 130:

Line 479:

|28/7c

|28/7c

|

|

−

|

+

|**

−

|FA. Andrew Pedley. 2012.

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|Bolted and FA by Andrew Pedley, March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

−

|

+

|Crazy steep climbing up the black groove. A knee bar rest is follwoed by a distinct crux. Possibly low in grade.

|-

|-

|16.

|16.

−

|Don't Deck P1

+

|Don't Deck

|23/6c+

|23/6c+

|

|

+

|**

|

|

−

|

+

|Looks ugly but climbs really well. This route starts about 3-5m left of FOSSIL FUEL, just left of the tree stump. It ends shortly after gaining the big right facing flake/corner. Retro-Bolted by Rob Brinkworth & Mark Oliver.

−

|There was a tree, but the muggers came and chopped it down.

+

|-

|-

|17.

|17.

−

|Don't Let Go

+

|Don't Let Go ( a.k.a mount doom on a stick )

|28/7c

|28/7c

|

|

|

|

−

|

+

|FA. Brian Weaver. 2012.

−

|Leftward extension of Don't Deck. Take long slings.

+

|Climb to the chains of Don't Deck and rail out left. Head through the three roofs and top out. Make sure you don't let go! At least 4 60cm slings are required to reduce rope drag. First Ascent: Brian Weaver (2011)

|-

|-

|18.

|18.

−

|Don't Deck <extension right, add name>

+

|Don't Deck Extension

|27/7b+

|27/7b+

|

|

−

|

+

|***

−

|

+

|Rebolted March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

−

|Rightward extension of Don't Deck ending on Fossil Fuel.

+

|A great pump! Link-up between DONT DECK and FOSSIL FUEL. Follow DON'T DECK but avoid the right-facing corner, instead move up on crimps then traverse right into the 2/3 height shake on Fossil. Shake then pile through the Fossil finishing roof, or fall off pumped. First Ascent: Harry Crews (June 2009)

|-

|-

|19.

|19.

Line 162:

Line 511:

|24/7a

|24/7a

|

|

−

|

+

|*

|BB. Wesley Black. FA. Wesley Black. 2011.

|BB. Wesley Black. FA. Wesley Black. 2011.

−

|

+

|Starts just right of the tree stump, a sustained route that climbs straight up to end on DONT DECK chains. First Ascent: Wesley Black. Bolts sponsored by MCSA - JHB/MAG Section

|-

|-

|20.

|20.

|Anduril Flame of the West

|Anduril Flame of the West

−

|30,31/8a,8a+

+

|30/8a

−

|

+

−

|

+

|

|

+

|**

|BB. Wesley Black. FA. Joey Kinder. 2011.

|BB. Wesley Black. FA. Joey Kinder. 2011.

−

|

+

|Starts a couple metres right of the cut tree stump. Looks a bit close to Fossil and aint that pretty…but actually really cool and well worth it. Love those sloping sidepulls. After the crux, another hard move to break the little roof then move right and merge into Fossil Fuel to the chains. First Ascent: Joey Kinder, 2011; BB: Wesley Black. Bolts sponsored by MCSA - JHB/MAG Section

|-

|-

|21.

|21.

Line 179:

Line 527:

|30/8a

|30/8a

|

|

−

|

+

|****

|BB. Peter Lazarus. FA. Ralph Brucher.

|BB. Peter Lazarus. FA. Ralph Brucher.

−

|Just before going for the big pinch there was a drilled pocket which was never used in any of the ascents and is now filled up to avoid cheating.

+

|The crags classic hard(ish) line, a good first 8a. With all the beta it’s now easy at the grade! Starts off the sloping ramp a few metres right of the cut tree stump. Some thin moves tending leftward to a pinch, then pumpy climbing leads to some final thuggery through the capping roof. First Ascent: 2000 Ralph Brucher (BB Peter Lazarus). Rebolted in 2009.

|The first line with chalk after all the projects, immediately left of Grimslade. Easy to the 3rd clip then a stiff pull then easy to chains. Low in grade, could be 29. Place long draw on 3rd bolt so can clip from jug rail.

|-

|-

|23.

|23.

|Grimslade

|Grimslade

|27/7b+

|27/7b+

−

|6 Bolts

+

|7 Bolts

−

|

+

|**

−

|

+

|Rebolted March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts

−

|

+

|The last well chalked climb on the right of the crag. This route was once called SLANTED & ENCHANTED, some good power moves on small grips moving left and over the lip. Take care lowering on this route there are some rough edges for the rope. Was 26 and is still 26.

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|-

|24.

|24.

Line 227:

Line 575:

|20/6b

|20/6b

|6 Bolts

|6 Bolts

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|*

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|

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|A short line with some long moves.

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|-

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|26.

|26.

Line 240:

Line 588:

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=== The Wall of Aglarond ===

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== The Wall of Aragon Route List ==

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This wall is past Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, through the gulley and past some scree slope.

This wall is past Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, through the gulley and past some scree slope.

Line 276:

Line 623:

|20/6b

|20/6b

|9 Bolts

|9 Bolts

−

|

|

|

|FA. Andries Smit '''OR''' Derek Pienaar. 2003.

|FA. Andries Smit '''OR''' Derek Pienaar. 2003.

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|

|-

|-

|4.

|4.

Revision as of 08:49, 23 April 2013

Contents

Directions

Intro

The Chosspile is the closest proper sport climbing crag to Johannesburg, being a bit closer than Bronkies. It also has the full spectrum of grades, from super easy, to 33 and beyond. ‘Choss’ as it is affectionately known has provided a place keep fit and work on projects, get away from the big smoke and talk crap, for a couple of generations of Gauteng climbers. The crag overlooks the Hartebeespoort Dam wall and the views are pretty good, especially if the sluice gates are open, but the smells can be less than good, depending on the time of year and the wind direction! Unlike the crag's name there is actually some damn good rock here with some fine routes too. The rock is a quartzite with interesting features; pinches and holes and blocky jugs. Climbs range from slabby to desperately overhanging; take your pick!

There is a bit of a slog to walk in to the crag but you will have plenty shade in the trees at the base of the cliff. The sun leaves most of the face by midday.

Access

Please adhere to under mentioned access arrangements religiously. The Chosspile was closed due to a spate of muggings and later re-opened following negotiations with the landowners and huge effort from the climbing community led by Neil Margetts and friends. NOTE: It was not the MCSA who insisted on the card-holder rule, it was Mt Amananzi, so please dont call Andrew at 8.00 am when you arrive there without a cardholder.

Mt Amanzi do not own the land, it is owned by Rissk Estates who agreed to continue to provide acccess to climbers IF the land is rented and the access is controlled. A fence was put up around the land and the Mountain Club of South Africa (MCSA) - spear-headed by Neil Margetts - negotiated a solution whereby Mt Amanzi rent the property from Rissik and control access. There are are some benefits to them in that they do not now have a mass of partyers and crime accross the river from the resort and the residents of the resort can hike up the Chospile mountain. This highlights an important point; Mt Amanzi are not renting the property solely so we can climb, we are secondary. Even if there were 300 climbers a month they are making a loss. For this reason, we do not have too much leverage in climber access discussions, if we are more trouble than we are worth they can close it to us. This is one of the reasons they are insisting that everyone who enters is with an MCSA or University climbing club member as this is reassurance to them that all people entering are responsible and climb safely.

In addition, Mt Amazi agreed to this ony if we the climbers pay for the guard at the gate, an average of R500 per month. So who pays this? The MCSA, average of R500 per month. The MCSA also pay for the bolts on new climbs and any rebolting of old ones, R600 a time.

So, with this in mind, the is the access rules from 1 October 2012 until further notice, are as follows:

1. Every climber entering the property must report to the Mount Amanzi reception before climbing.

2. Entrance is R30 for MCSA members or members of a University climbing club. Cards must be shown and must have a photoo and sticker for year of membership.

3. A maximum of 2 guests are allowed with each cardholder. Entrance is R50 for the 1st and 2nd guests. Rather than grumble about this, join the MCSA or your University Club!

4. All climbers must sign the registry boook and indemnity, and if they are the card-holder, must write their club membership number.

5. Opening hours are:- Winter time – 1 May till 31 August – from 08H00 – 16H00. Summer time - 1 September till 30 April – from 08H00 – 17H00. This reflects the hours the guards are paid and their transport.

6. Officers at reception must ask for cards and check validity, it is in the interests of access that climbers remind the desk staff of this.

7. The guard at the gate must check the date and number of people indicated on the reciept, it is in the interests of access that climbers remind the guard of this.

Anyone found to be not complying with the above will be banned from the property and should the access be closed down, will not be very popular!

Sorry that ths is all so firm..but continued access depends on it.

The owners of the crag (Mr Bezuidenhout of Rissik Estates) is adamant that nobody must trespass onto the land from the dam wall side Legal action will be taken against anyone who does. Please adhere to this rule to avoid unnecessary trouble and considerably jeopardise future access and seriously piss off for the majority of the Gauteng climbing community.

Please stick to these rules to keep the access open and the crag safe.

Chosspile Route List

The Man Cave

First Cave after walking from parking.

#

ROUTE NAME / AREA

GRADE

# BOLTS

RATING

BOLTING/OPENED INFO

DESCRIPTION

<THE MAN-OMETER TRAVERSE PROJECT>

BB. Andrew Pedley

Violent Streak

32/8b

7 Bolts

BB. Andrew Pedley. FA. Andrew Pedley. 2012.

Attacks the grey water streak you can see for miles. Scramble to the top of the chossy pillar then power up and pull on. On the FA the first 3 bolts were pre-clipped.

Harry Potter

This crag is right of the Real Man Cave. Routes run from LEFT to RIGHT.

#

ROUTE NAME / AREA

GRADE

# BOLTS

RATING

BOLTING/OPENED INFO

DESCRIPTION

Drako

24/7a

14 Bolts

RBB. Rory Lowther.

Pitch 1 is 21/6b+. Pitch 2 is 21/6b+. Use 2 ropes to abseil all the way or go from chains to chains. Currently no chains at stance to abseil from, but large tree stem out right works well to.

Bolts from the Blue

15/5b

Natural Gear

FA. Stephen Malloryn OR Cara Wessel. <Unless you were simul-climbing or suffer from schitzophrenia pick one>.

40m Climb the face left of HARRY POTHEAD, starting 7m left of HP. Tricky poorly protected start. Fire up to the top past two trees. Last 15m also poorly protected.

Harry Pothead

19/6a+

6 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

Short route with easy start, follows large flaring crack up to end of small roof on the left with anchors just around lip.

Hogwarts Warted Hog

23

9 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

Climb toward the left crack in the small roof.

Chamber of Secrets

25/7a+

8 Bolts

BB. Rory Lowther. FA. Steve Dunnet.

Route starts 8m below small roof with decent climbing into a corner below roof then follows right crack out of corner and through crux roof to anchors on the face above.

Dobby

23,24/6c+,7a

8 Bolts

BB. Debbie Mulder. FA. Rory Lowther.

Just to the right of Chamber of secrets, climb overhanging rock on the right of small roof to anchors in small open book.

Dodgey Glue

19/6a+

To the right of DOBBY. A cruxy start next to a large root. Glue in anchors have been used.

Man Thang

24/7a

To the right of DODGY GLUE. Glue in anchors used.

The Philosophers Stoned

20

Harry Goes Trading

13

Natural Gear

Easy climbing for 20m, starts to right of the Philosophers Stone in the open book, up to a stance on a ledge with big tree to abseil off.

Moaning Murtle

23/6c+

7 Bolts

FA. Roland Magg.

Starts 20m to right of The Philosophers Stoned, on a rock ledge. Line follows middle section of rock, with face climbing until over bulge of rock then into a small roof with the crux.

New Route -- SALAZAR suggested

18/6a

BB. David Tapp. FA. Daniel Hannah. 2010.

Start 5m right of Moaning Myrtle. The route takes an almost straight line to the bolts, with a crux at 1/3 height and a tricky move onto the top of an overhang near the top. Good climbing.

Spongify

22/6c

8 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

Start 2m to the right of SALAZAR. Climb into early crux move and continue to easier, fun climbing on face above. Beware a ground fall from the low crux. The small tree at about 2m has been used as a hanging belay to make an early ground fall less likely.

Voltamor

19/6a+

8 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

Climb through 3 small roofs to ledge with chains above the last roof.

Diffindo

20/6b

7 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

Short line with easy start, until crux move getting onto and through small roof.

The crag now moves uphill and steps back to a long face with a corner at its left end.

#

ROUTE NAME / AREA

GRADE

# BOLTS

RATING

BOLTING/OPENED INFO

DESCRIPTION

THE BLOODY BARON

15/5b

12 Bolts

Start in the corner, just left of the chimney. Move left onto slab and then a few metres higher up, move right into a short right-facing corner. Climb this to ledge, then move left into left facing corner. Steep moves at the top take you to the chains. Some long draws are useful just as you go into to top corner to avoid rope drag. One can also climb the right arête at the bottom. There is a dire warning about rope drag written on the rock at the base of this climb. Please ignore it but do take care to ensure that the rope runs clear from bolt to bolt, doesn't get trapped under the tree or round any rocky bulges.

Quidditch

23/6c+

7 Bolts

FA. Neil Margetts. 2008.

This route takes the hanging slab right of the previous route. Start as for THE BLOODY BARON but branch right to the base of the hanging slab and up this to the top. There is a bit of a run out from the top bolt to the chains, but it is safe.

The Balls of Hagrid

20/6b

9 Bolts

BB. Neil Margetts. FA. David Tapp. 2010.

Climb THE BLOODY BARON for five bolts, then break right across a slab until under a black corner with a prominent crack. Swarm up the crack to an overhang and move left through it to the slab and chains above.

The Slab of Snape

16/5c

15 Bolts

BB. David Tapp & Neil Margetts. FA. Neil Margetts. 2010.

The first route on the main face. Climb a series of ledges then up to good holds under a small overhang. Move left under the overhang and up the slab (crux) to the chains. 60m ESSENTIAL.

Harry Catastrophe Left Hand

13/5a

7 Bolts

FA. Dylan Morgan. 2004.

Start about 6m left of Slitherin, 3m left of HCRH. Straight up to the chains with one bolt right of the line at half height. The crux is in the first 3m.

Harry Catastrophe Right Hand

15/5b

6 Bolts

FA. Mike Grant. 2004.

Start just left of Slitherin. Turn the overhang with one hard move before following the shallow recess to the ledge and face above. This route shares its upper section and anchors with HCLH.

Slitheren

14/5b

10 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

Climbs the obvious corner to the left of centre on the face. Climb to the short layback crack and into an undercling, step out left to easy climbing up an open book corner. Fun climbing for 20m.

A variation of Slitherin 18

18/6a

Heads right, onto the face at the overhang. The climb can then be finished up the face to the right of the arete or straight up the arete. It's a little artificial but if you climb the arete try not to resort to footholds other than on the arete. Move slightly right at the top to the anchors of Raven's Claw. Both anchors are now 100% as of 16.1.10

Ravens Claw

17/5c

9 Bolts

FA. Ronald Magg.

Follow the obvious line of bolts to the right of the Slitherin variation, face climbing for 20m to chains. Both anchors are now 100% as of 16.1.10

Griffindore

17/5c

10 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

This route is to the right of Ravens claw and heads up the middle of the face/slab with 3 crux moves otherwise some good climbing.

Huff 'n Puff

18/6a

9 Bolts

FA. Rory Lowther.

Cruxy, bouldery start and crimpy end, but easier section in the middle.

Cramcakes and Scumbags

20/6b

6 Bolts

FA. Louis Smit OR Wiliam Graham. 2004. <Do you have an alias?>

The Lord of the Rings

This crag is past the Harry Potter section following the scree path all the way too the top large cave.

Routes from the LEFT of the crag towards the RIGHT. This crag is in the shade most of the day with some areas being in the sun late afternoon. This crag is mostly overhanging.

#

ROUTE NAME / AREA

GRADE

# BOLTS

RATING

BOLTING/OPENED INFO

DESCRIPTION

1.

Pipeweed

22/6c

8 Bolts

**

FA. Dewald Kloppers.

Starts with an easy scramble about 5-10m left of SHORTCUT TO MUSHROOMS. The first bolt is about 3m off the ground, scramble up carefully. Continues on a straight line through a cruxy roof to an easy end.

Following the crackline through a small mantleshelf and a cunning ending. First Ascent: Rob Brinkworth

3.

A Shortcut to Mushrooms

21/6b+

***

Rebolted March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

The leftmost route on a yellow, lichen covered face which gets sun in the afternoon. An excellent route and brilliant warm-up.

4.

Voices of Saruman

23/6c+

*

Starts just around the corner and to the right of A SHORTCUT TO MUSHROOMS, try stay out of the corner higher up.

5.

Gandalf

24/7a

**

rebolted Feb 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

A nice route about 2m right of VOICES OF SARUMAN passing the little roof then tends slightly right. Used to be 26, but is probably 23!

6.

Mourn not overmuch

25/7a+

*

About 2m right of GANDALF is an open corner and crack system, finishes on same anchors as GANDALF. Not popular so might be a bit dirty.

7.

Halfling

26/7b

**

Bolted by Andrew Pedley

Use the first three bolts of MOURN NOT OVERMUCH, follow the bolts slightly right up a dark pillar with some hard moves moving over a bulge and left. With the right beta its pretty easy. Finish on the chains of GOLLUM. First Ascent: Jun 2004 Andrew Pedley

8.

Gollum

25/7a+

***

rebolted Feb 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

Climbs up the face to the large hole 5 metres up. From here some tricky moves to a balancy shake before the sting in tail. Was 24 but consensus is now easy 25. A great climb and a good warm-up for harder things.

9.

Gollum extension <add name>

10.

Big Bully

29 (7c+)

***

BB. Wesley Black and Andrew P. FA. Dario Zanon. 2012.

The line just to the left of the big dark cave and bush. Instead doing the daft cave start, start from the ground, some confusing face climbing to the big hole on Gollum. From this reach out and clip high then bust the bulge on the right, the pull onto the obvious shield side-pull and power-up for a bouldery crux then a stamina finish. BB: Wesley Black and Andrew Pedley. FA: Andrew Pedley. Bolts sponsored by MCSA - JHB/MAG Section

11.

Bully for Brontosaurus

28/7c

10 Bolts

***

FA. Peter Lazarus.

Scramble up to the big cave in the middle of the crag. Move left to where you will see the first bolt and clip with long sling. Move out and left onto the shield as above. First Ascent: Peter Lazarus

12.

Tyrannosaurus Pex

27/7b+

**

Bolted and FA: Willem le Roux 2006

Same first bolt as Bully, then move right to jugs then hard up the face rightwards to chains. Brilliant steep rock.

13.

<Richard Lords bolt line running through cave open project.>

This will go after Shadowfax has been crushed. Needs new bolts.

14.

Shadowfax

33/8b+

***

FA. Andrew Pedley. March 2013.

Hardest route in Maglaliesberg, takes on the full steepness of the crag. Start on the small whitish face with first bolt preclipped, to a shake before the roof. Calm the mind then blast out through to a pinch and a semi shake then into a low percentage crux on some bad bad holds. Scream at the finger lock and dont screw up the finish. Solid at the grade. Originally bolted by P. Martin. Rebolted by AP in 2009 and new start added.

15.

The Chossfather

28/7c

**

Bolted and FA by Andrew Pedley, March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

Crazy steep climbing up the black groove. A knee bar rest is follwoed by a distinct crux. Possibly low in grade.

16.

Don't Deck

23/6c+

**

Looks ugly but climbs really well. This route starts about 3-5m left of FOSSIL FUEL, just left of the tree stump. It ends shortly after gaining the big right facing flake/corner. Retro-Bolted by Rob Brinkworth & Mark Oliver.

17.

Don't Let Go ( a.k.a mount doom on a stick )

28/7c

FA. Brian Weaver. 2012.

Climb to the chains of Don't Deck and rail out left. Head through the three roofs and top out. Make sure you don't let go! At least 4 60cm slings are required to reduce rope drag. First Ascent: Brian Weaver (2011)

18.

Don't Deck Extension

27/7b+

***

Rebolted March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts.

A great pump! Link-up between DONT DECK and FOSSIL FUEL. Follow DON'T DECK but avoid the right-facing corner, instead move up on crimps then traverse right into the 2/3 height shake on Fossil. Shake then pile through the Fossil finishing roof, or fall off pumped. First Ascent: Harry Crews (June 2009)

19.

Shelob

24/7a

*

BB. Wesley Black. FA. Wesley Black. 2011.

Starts just right of the tree stump, a sustained route that climbs straight up to end on DONT DECK chains. First Ascent: Wesley Black. Bolts sponsored by MCSA - JHB/MAG Section

20.

Anduril Flame of the West

30/8a

**

BB. Wesley Black. FA. Joey Kinder. 2011.

Starts a couple metres right of the cut tree stump. Looks a bit close to Fossil and aint that pretty…but actually really cool and well worth it. Love those sloping sidepulls. After the crux, another hard move to break the little roof then move right and merge into Fossil Fuel to the chains. First Ascent: Joey Kinder, 2011; BB: Wesley Black. Bolts sponsored by MCSA - JHB/MAG Section

21.

Fossil Fuel

30/8a

****

BB. Peter Lazarus. FA. Ralph Brucher.

The crags classic hard(ish) line, a good first 8a. With all the beta it’s now easy at the grade! Starts off the sloping ramp a few metres right of the cut tree stump. Some thin moves tending leftward to a pinch, then pumpy climbing leads to some final thuggery through the capping roof. First Ascent: 2000 Ralph Brucher (BB Peter Lazarus). Rebolted in 2009.

The first line with chalk after all the projects, immediately left of Grimslade. Easy to the 3rd clip then a stiff pull then easy to chains. Low in grade, could be 29. Place long draw on 3rd bolt so can clip from jug rail.

23.

Grimslade

27/7b+

7 Bolts

**

Rebolted March 2013 with MCSA Mag and JHB bolts

The last well chalked climb on the right of the crag. This route was once called SLANTED & ENCHANTED, some good power moves on small grips moving left and over the lip. Take care lowering on this route there are some rough edges for the rope. Was 26 and is still 26.

24.

Unfinished Business

23/6c+

7 Bolts

25.

Hobbitry in Arms

20/6b

6 Bolts

*

A short line with some long moves.

26.

Ramble On

18/6a

The Wall of Aglarond

This wall is past Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, through the gulley and past some scree slope.